Return to the sea

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The fragile stability of some Middle Eastern countries hinges on their access to dwindling supplies of freshwater. Conflict between Nile basin countries over water, among a number of other challenges, have prompted scientists and researchers to explore the sea––Earth’s final frontier––­for sustainable solutions.

Clean, usable water sources in the Middle East are being depleted thanks to a large demand from agricultural food production, rapid population growth and the creeping effects of global warming. How arid the region is means that its water supply is already acutely finite.

Climate change is causing water to evaporate faster, and atmosphere is holding less. Rainfall patterns are sporadic, with some areas experiencing heavy downpours and more frequent floods. As well, droughts are increasing in frequency, with the latter lasting longer than they have historically.

The search for alternative water resources in the face of mounting freshwater insecurity is part of a larger quest for a sustainable future.

Nature Middle East looks at the water crisis and the opportunity that saltwater offers, and showcases the research – and the institutions – studying ways in which the Middle East can exploit the sea to produce clean, drinking water; to grow food and harvest energy; and to cultivate ecosystems that can mitigate the effects of climate change.

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